Medicine men commune with the spirit world, bringing the spirits’ wisdom and strength to the aid of their fellow warriors.

In times of battle, they ask the spirits to guide and protect the tribe’s fighters, keeping them from harm, giving them true knowledge of the enemy’s strengths and guiding the aim of every man. They carry individual totems that hold great power: objects struck by lightning, or that have been in contact with the dead. This is their contribution to the safety and strength of all involved in a battle.

Historically, medicine men and shamans gave supposedly magical power to those in their tribes, but they also gave practical medical help too. They had a deep knowledge of herbs and plants, many of which could be used to heal wounds as well as treat illness.